Summer Insect Bites (#1 of 2)

Summer insect bites can vary from just annoying to vacation ruining. Over the counter hydrocortisone 1% applied 3-4 times daily for 2-3 days is often enough.

A small percentage of us are “insect bite reactors.” Insect bites, including bee stings, will become much more swollen and painful than for the average person. Travel with Benadryl (see next week’s Tip).

And ask your doctor or pediatrician for a prescription for betamethasone (generic for Diprolene) lotion or cream to carry with you. It’s much more effective than over the counter hydrocortisone and is a trip saver if you really react to bites.

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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